Mercury-induced nummular dermatitis

J Am Acad Dermatol. 2000 Aug;43(2 Pt 2):383-5. doi: 10.1067/mjd.2000.102457.

Abstract

We report 2 cases of relapsing nummular dermatitis according to mercury sensitivity, which was confirmed by patch testing. Removal of the amalgam from dental metal alloys markedly improved their skin eruptions. One of the patients, a dentist, experienced exacerbation of the eruptions on his lower legs after handling dental amalgam. Hypersensitivity to haptens such as metals is possibly involved in, at least in some patients, the pathogenesis of nummular dermatitis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Dental Amalgam / adverse effects*
  • Dermatitis, Occupational / diagnosis*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mercuric Chloride / adverse effects
  • Mercury Poisoning / diagnosis*
  • Patch Tests
  • Skin Diseases, Vesiculobullous / chemically induced*
  • Skin Diseases, Vesiculobullous / diagnosis

Substances

  • Mercuric Chloride
  • Dental Amalgam